Reclaiming plastics
Project Details
My project involved collecting approximately 150lbs of single use plastic materials, cleaning it, shredding it and offering it to the public for secondary use. It was then used for educational purposes, 3D printing and remelted for new products.
Project Description
I connected with the community to collect as much plastic as possible to then shred down and donate the shredded plastics to whoever may need some. This was done through reaching out to different groups, including schools, businesses and individuals. The plastic was then collected, cleaned and processed. Then the shredded materials were given out to whoever had a use for them. Since the vast majority of plastics are only used very briefly and then end up in landfills, eco systems or incinerated this project worked to give plastics a longer life that didn’t end negatively.
This project has been created in commemoration of the lives of all the victims of Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302, including two Ocean Bridge ambassadors, Danielle Moore and Micah Messent. We aspire to carry on their legacy and commitment to making the world a better place by creating long-lasting impacts with a firm commitment to driving positive change for the environment and our ocean. We will never forget the light that Danielle and Micah brought to the world and will continue to keep them in our hearts. To learn more about these two amazing people, please visit: Honouring Danielle and Micah – Ocean Wise. This work is partially funded by the Commemoration Fund for Victims of Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 Tragedy.
What was your biggest challenge?
My biggest challenge was finding a community group to connect to, I sent dozens of emails to schools asking to come and speak to them and do a plastics drive. No one responded. Finally, I reached out to a high school teacher who I hadn’t spoken to in 10 years and she was able to make a school connection for me.
What was your most valuable takeaway?
People want to help, desperately. They just don’t know how, or don’t have the tools. Give them the tools and the know how and you’ll have a different world. A lot of what should be simple solutions end up bogged down in workplace regulations and an unwillingness to take add an additional step. Solutions won’t be easy to find, but they will be out there, just keep looking.
